Downey to celebrate Dia de los Muertos with festival

DOWNEY - Dia de los Muertos, a Mexican holiday that celebrates the memory of deceased friends and relatives, will be celebrated with a cultural festival at the Downey Theatre on Sunday, Nov. 3. Taking place inside the theater and outdoor civic center, the festival will include local artisans featuring altar displays and an art gallery exhibit, live music and dancing, an outdoor art car exhibition, a schedule of live folkloric dance on the main stage and two screenings of the 1960 Mexican film "Marcario."

In the theater courtyard, vendors will be selling Dia de los Muertos-related merchandise.

A kid's zone will offer interactive papel picado demonstrations, face painting and decorating calaveras (sugar skulls).

The festival will also feature seven food trucks offering various cuisines, along with a beer and wine garden.

The family-friendly event is from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and free to the public.

For more information, including details on how to participate in the festival, call Amber Vogel at (562) 904-7230 or e-mail info@downeytheatre.org.